Skip to main content

How does Leqvio work in treating high cholesterol?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on Dec 9, 2022.

Official answer

by Drugs.com

Leqvio treats high cholesterol by interfering with the production of a protein called PCSK9 which is responsible for breaking down receptors on liver cells that remove cholesterol from the blood. This allows more receptors to be present, increasing the uptake of LDL cholesterol by liver cells and its removal from the blood.

Leqvio limits the production of the PCSK9 protein by interfering with the translation of PCSK9 messenger RNA (mRNA). It belongs to the class of medicines known as small interfering ribonucleic acids (siRNAs).

Leqvio is administered by subcutaneous (under the skin) injection every 6 months and is used in combination with a daily oral statin (such as atorvastatin or rosuvastatin) together with a healthy diet.

References
  • Leqvio (inclisiran) Prescribing Information. FDA Access Data. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/214012lbl.pdf
  • Leqvio (inclisiran) [Package Insert] Updated April 1, 2022. Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation https://www.drugs.com/pro/leqvio.html
  • What is Leqvio. Leqvio.com. https://www.leqvio.com/what-is-leqvio

Read next

Leqvio and Repatha are both injectable medicines that are used for the treatment of high cholesterol, by specifically lowering low density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. Although they both inhibit PCSK9 they work by different mechanisms. Repatha is a monoclonal antibody that binds directly to PCSK9 in the liver preventing it from binding to LDL receptors. Leqvio blocks the PCSK9 protein by interfering with the translation of PCSK9 messenger RNA. Both have the same result – and that is freeing up LDL receptors on the surface of liver cells which allows LDL cholesterol to be removed from the blood. Continue reading

The PCSK9 inhibitors are used for the treatment of high-risk patients with elevated cholesterol, especially when statins aren't adequate. They work by blocking PCSK9, leaving more receptors available to capture your "bad" cholesterol (LDL) for break down and removal from the blood. Continue reading

Leqvio may be used alone or with other medications, such as statins, to treat high cholesterol, in addition to a heart-healthy diet. But it can be prescribed without a statin if statins are not tolerated or contraindicated. Continue reading

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups

Medical Disclaimer